A Top Wisconsin Getaway: A Charming Beachfront Village with Fabulous Shops on Green Bay Shores

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A Top Wisconsin Getaway: A Charming Beachfront Village with Fabulous Shops on Green Bay Shores

Wisconsin is arguably home to the Midwest’s most underrated vacation spot: Door County. The county boasts a beautiful coast and endless charm that will have you singing praise for the local cuisine (visiting Door means gorging on cherries, cheese, and fish boil) and exploring the many quaint towns and villages that punctuate the gorgeous landscape. One of these must-see places is Sister Bay.



This lakeside spot is roughly an hour-and-a-half drive from Green Bay. From either Madison or Milwaukee, one can expect the drive to be about three to four hours. With a population of just over 1,000, Sister Bay offers the perfect opportunity to discover all the small-town picturesque charm Door County has to offer. From its idyllic waterfront to its fairytale sunsets, Sister Bay will make you forget all about the hustle and bustle of Wisconsin’s three major cities. So, whether you’re a big city Cheesehead looking to escape for a weekend or just a traveler from out-of-state trekking across the Midwest, add Sister Bay to your must-visit list.

Sister Bay is one of Wisconsin’s top tourist destinations

An overview shot of Sister Bay during the daytime in autumn.



Traveling to Sister Bay is a must for anyone who loves aquatic-based fun and water activities. The small town has its own beach (the biggest in Door County) that offers boats and kayaks for rent. Even if you’re not a big swimmer or you happen to be exploring during the colder months, Sister Bay’s sandy shores can still offer long leisurely walks, serene views, and cozy fall vibes. When the weather is right, the beach also makes for a terrific place to picnic with the family as it offers large picnic tables and plenty of grassy space.

For the history buffs, there’s also the Sister Bay Historical Society, a museum dedicated to the village’s development over time, chronicling the arrival of the first European settlers in 1857 to the formation of Sister Bay’s modern-day tourist sector. Tickets for tours around the village’s 19th-century farmhouse and renovated historical buildings are available from late May to October. Around this time the museum also hosts a regular farmer’s market each Saturday, with only locally grown Door County delicacies permitted for sale. Speaking of food, that’s another reason to come by Sister Bay.

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Sister Bay is filled with incredible shops and restaurants

The exterior of Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik.

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.